ArtPrize 09-Open Water no.24 by deviant_anomaly

ART PRIZE 2009-0032 by RichardD72

AND THE WINNER IS... by rkramer62

DETAIL FROM WINNERS CANVAS by bitsorf

The first-ever ArtPrize in Grand Rapids has ended with Open Water no. 24, a 6' x 19' oil painting by Ran Ortner being chosen as the winner by public vote from 1,262 artists who exhibited at 157 venues across the city. A former pro motorcycle racer, Ortner will receive a quarter of a million dollars for his finish. The Freep reports:

Ortner said he was stunned by his win. “Wow. Exhilarating, captivating, ridiculous. Can’t get my head around it.”

It means a lot to him that those choosing his work were not professional art critics but people who were moved by his work. “There’s been a heart connection here,” he said.

And it has been good for those who voted, Ortner said. “All of a sudden, those who know nothing about art have an opinion that matters,” he said. “It really has a life larger than anything anybody anticipated.”

ArtPrize 2009 Winners

1. Ran Ortner – Open Water no. 24
2. Tracy Van Duinen – Imagine That!
3. Eric Daigh – Portraits
4. David Lubbers – The Grand Dance
5. Bill Secunda – Moose
6. Nessie Project – Nessie on the Grand
7. John Douglas Powers – Field of Reeds
8. Sarah Grant – The Furniture City Sets the Table for the World of Art
9. Jason Hackenwerth – Ecstasy of The Scarlet Empress
10. Michael Westra – winddancer 2

You can get some more links to coverage at Who won ArtPrize? on the ArtPrize blog and stay tuned to absolutemichigan.com/ArtPrize for news about ArtPrize 2010!

Check out this video below for some scenes from the Winners Celebration - the close of this dance number is really impressive!

More videos can be found at ArtPrize 2009 Absolute Michigan.

ART PRIZE 2009 by RichardD72

Michigan has taken the national stage with one eye on the ArtPrize competition in Grand Rapids and the other on it's burgeoning and award winning wine industry which gaining credibility amongst wine experts and wine lovers. This is truly a positive and a definite 180 degree flip from most of the national news our state receives as of late.

ArtPrize garners national attention in the New York Times

The New York Times reports on the competition and the overwhelming positive response and impact on Grand Rapids in their article Eyes on the ArtPrize by Micheline Maynard. The article also takes note of several of the exhibits including some of the final top 10 entries. The winner of ArtPrize drew over 1,200 artists and has had about 32,000 people register to vote on the works. The winner will be awarded 250,00 with a minimum of $7,000 for the nine runners-up.

No matter who wins, the 17-day competition has spurred a lively debate in Grand Rapids, a city of about 200,000 with a tradition of interest in art. It is home to several museums and a college of art and design.

“Every conversation I’ve had here for the past two weeks has been about art,” said Dustin Dwyer, a correspondent for Michigan Radio, a public radio network, who is based in Grand Rapids and has reported on the competition since its inception earlier this year. “From that perspective, it’s a success. But are we rewarding good art? That’s up for question.”

Be sure to check out Absolute Michigan on Location - ArtPrize and the Absolute Michigan's ArtPrize 2009 Page.

Michigan wine continues to gain ground as a world class product

The 45th parallel yielding good wine from Michigan, ABC reports.

Other national news regarding Michigan wines and wine trails

Off the beaten wine trail: Explore four emerging regions - USA Today

Leelanau Peninsula, Michigan: The state's 56 wineries are spread across Michigan along four wine trails, but most of the best grapes are grown near the eastern shore of Lake Michigan and its bays.

Exotic vacations may be closer than you think: Napa Valley-esque wine tastings - CNN

If it's wine you want, find an alternative to Napa Valley in Michigan's Leelanau and Old Mission peninsulas. Here you'll discover more than 850 acres of land and more than 20 wineries for your choosing.

The area offers tastings and gourmet meals, and Kantrowitz says, "The region is particularly known for its great pinot blancs."

The new Napa Valley: Taste one of Obama's favorite wines at this Michigan winery - Examiner.com

The rumor is that Michigan is soon to become the new Napa Valley. With climate changes potentially affecting the California coastline, Napa vineyard owners are looking to Northern Michigan to grow their grapes.

Part of the appeal of Northern Michigan is the colder climate on the 45th Parallel where grapes for rare ice wines flourish. For more information on why wines do so well along the 45th parallel, read the Chicago Tribune’s story on this region.

Best North American Wine Destinations - Digital City

8. Traverse City, Michigan
Traverse City lends itself to making Baco Noir and Cabernet Franc, thanks to grapes that grow near the shores of Lake Michigan, offering a unique climate. The rest of the state's wines come from Michigan wine country, where you can also find rare fruit and ice wines.

According to Michigan Wines - The Official Website of Michigan's Wine Industry:

Michigan's wine, grapes and grape juice products and related industries ...

... produced nearly $790 million of total economic value to the State of Michigan in 2005

... paid more than $42 million in state and local taxes in Michigan, and an additional $42 million in federal taxes

... account for more than 5,000 jobs across the state, for a payroll of more than $190 million

Check out their collection of photos of Michigan's vineyards and wineries.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Traverse City Wine & Art Festival by M'Lynn Heartwell Mike Brenton from the Lansing City Pulse attended the wine fest. In Sampling the Champs he writes about the festival and the Michigan Wine and Spirits Competition: This year’s Best of Class and Judge’s Merit winners included six wines from Leelanau Peninsula and Old Mission Peninsula and an Ice Wine from Fenn Valley Vineyards, south of Holland. It is a testament to the quality grape growing and winemaking in the Traverse City Region... Complete competition results are posted at www.michiganwines.com, but it is helpful to taste wines before purchasing. Fortuitously, the Traverse City Wine and Art Festival held its inaugural celebration on Aug. 22 at the Grand Traverse Commons. Twenty-two area wineries and several diverse restaurants rimmed the edges of a circus-sized tent, while wine devotees sampled many of the Gold Medal and Best of Class wines. Forming a perimeter around the tent was a juried fine arts show, featuring many artists recognizable from the East Lansing Art Fair. On a stage off to the side, Okemos’ own Thom Jayne & the Nomads entertained the crowd, along with other bands.

Buckwheat Zydeco at the Beer Fest II by Andy McFarlane Absolute Michigan's Cherie Spaulding braved the downpour at the beer festival. In If you brew it she reports: What occurred at The Village Saturday afternoon was no small feat. Had the sun simply offered her face in typical August fashion, hosting a Microbrew & Music festival would have been worry enough. Add to the challenge: rain, rain, rain. Still, not a grim face in the crowd. Smiles protruded from hooded hatters toting biodegradable koozies thermally insulating samples of amber ale and chocolate stout. Huddled and gathered beneath large and small tents, attendees dodged rain drops pelleting the lawn. Despite Mother Nature's drab set decoration, Traverse City's Microbrew & Music Festival proved to be a brilliant affair, as folks flooded the lawn of the old State Hospital grounds, sipping suds in the (sometimes) pouring rain... After Saturday's event, the only hard evidence we have is that nothing--not even cool wet weather--will stop Michiganders from their microbrews, music and good eats. And yes, they seemed happy. Northern Michigan's thirst to celebrate with friends and family can neither be quenched or denied. Rain or shine--if you brew it, they will come!

Click for more wine fest photos by M'Lynn, and Absolute Michigan also brought in photographer Jesamin Califf who has a great gallery from the inaugural TC Wine & Art Festival.

I had the good fortune to be involved with both events - the TC Wine & Art fest as an organizer and the TC Beer fest as a participant. While I have to admit that it was a lot more fun to be on the participant end, the most exciting thing about the week for me has been looking forward to what the week holds in 2010 and beyond.

Plans are already afoot to turn the week into a celebration of community, culture and the culinary offerings of the new foodie mecca that is the Traverse City area. Stay tuned!

As always, the festival site will have a Disc Golf Course Designed by Stephanai Myers of Disc Golf Michigan. The festival site is also strategically located near various mountain biking trails and the Pine River, a National Wild and Scenic River, a world class blue-ribbon trout stream, and a renowned paddle sports playground. Kestelwoods restaurant, party store and campground is a convenient 6 minute walk from the festival grounds.

New to the Festival
New this year will be the addition of a beer tent, featuring some of the finest handcrafted brews from the great beer state, served up in a micro beer festival format. We're proud to announce our all new Farmers Market full of local produce and specialty baked goods.

Vendor Village
In Hoxeyville we understand the vendor village is the nucleus of any good festival. We always strive to feature the finest artisan, craft and food vendors from our region, with a focus on specialty foods with locally grown and organic ingredients.

Just some of the artists include:
Buddy Guy, Galactic, Bill Frisell Trio, The New Orleans All-Stars, Melvin Seals & JGB, Greensky Bluegrass, Great American Taxi, Ekoostic Hookah, Seth Bernard & May Erlewine, Steppin' In It, The Macpodz and many, many more....

Location
Located in Beautiful Northwest Lower Michigan in the Heart of the Manistee National Forest, The Festival Grounds are located just west of The Kestelwoods Store and Campground off M-37 in Wexford County (1 1/2 hrs N of Grand Rapids, 40 Min. S of Traverse City) This year the site has been expanded to 75 acres and features ample areas for shaded walk-in and car camping, and open and level fields for RVs and Campers. This year we have a new Venue area that will be home to the The Main stage, Vendor Village and a Beer Tent featuring some of the finest brews from the region.

Arts, Beats & Eats will still feature The HealthPlus Art Fair, one of the top art shows in the US, incredible food, more than 125 bands on six stages, and dynamic and interactive fun for the kids

Arts, Beats & Eats was founded to celebrate the quality of life in Oakland County by offering a culturally unique presentation of artists, musicians and food exhibits, from the Metro Detroit area, and throughout the United States.

The festival was designed to provide outstanding family entertainment at a very low cost, and will add a $2 admission fee to the festival and all concerts, but will balance the extra fee by offering lower costs for parking, food and beverages items, and other value incentives throughout the weekend including free admission on Friday. See their great values page.

Proceeds from the admission fee at Arts, Beats & Eats will be distributed among several key Metro-Detroit charities by the Arts, Beats & Eats Foundation. For a list of non-profit partners that will share their admission fee, click here. To date, over $2 million raised by Arts, Beats & Eats has been donated to charity.

This years festival will feature new cultural programs including the Oakland County Summer Arts Project, performances by Detroit Chamber Winds and Eisenhower Dance, and interactive Arts & Crafts from Metro Parent Magazine.

Arts, Beats & Eats is also excited about a new partnership with DPTV and PBS as sponsor of their kids zone, and the return of their partnership with ITC and their greenways initiative.

Now entering its twelfth year, Arts, Beats and Eats has celebrated many successes, including attracting large crowds each year, earning top rankings for its juried fine arts show, securing top national entertainment, and providing unique interactive programs for the family. Past music performers at Arts, Beats & Eats have included Brian McKnight, Montgomery Gentry, Live, The B52's, Collective Soul, Paul Rodgers of Bad Company, Martina McBride, Rick Braun, David Benoit, Jodee Messina, Blues Traveler, 38 Special, Rick Springfield, and many more. The festival has something to offer to everyone, in a child-friendly, safe and secure environment.

Location and Directions

View Larger Map

About the Festival

The Traverse City Wine & Art Festival is being organized in order to create a landmark celebration of the wine, food and culture for the region. It will feature 22 wineries from the Leelanau and Old Mission Peninsulas along with a selection of Traverse City and Leelanau restaurants providing food & desserts. Art Center Traverse City will be coordinating a sampling of artists and arts organizations who will display and sell their work in booths ringing the tent. Music will be offered for the duration, headlined by Michigan's own Thom Jayne and the Nomads who play a truly unique blend of world and Celtic infused jazz. The music will be punctuated by original dance from the Michigan Dance Collective.

Saharan Caravan by Thom Jayne and the Nomads

"The Leelanau Peninsula Vintners Association is excited to be building a major wine festival that will showcase the amazing wines of our region against the beautiful backdrop of the Grand Traverse Commons. We feel that the blend of art, food and wine is a natural combination that highlights three things we do very well in Northwest Michigan," said festival chairperson Jaclyn Eikey. "With the addition of some really eclectic music and entertainment, I think it will be an experience like none other offered in our area. The proceeds from this year's party will help us build a festival that we feel will become one of the highlights of summer in the Traverse City area."

Tickets

Tickets are limited and can be purchased online for $20 per person and will be available for pickup on the day of the event. You can also pick them up at the following locations:

Bel Lago, Black Star Farms (All 3 locations), Bowers Harbor, Brys Estate, Chateau Chantal, Chateau de Leelanau, Chateau Fontaine, Chateau Grand Traverse, Cherry Republic Winery, Ciccone, Forty-Five North, Gill's Pier, Good Neighbor Organic, L. Mawby, Leelanau Wine Cellars, Left Foot Charley, Peninsula Cellars, Shady Lane Cellars, Silver Leaf, Tandem Ciders, Traverse City Convention , & Visitors Bureau, Turtle Creek, Two Lads, Willow Vineyard

Tickets purchased online will be available for pickup on the day of the event. They are nonrefundable but can be transferred to another name if you are unable to attend. YOU MUST BE 21+ to attend.

mikesophia is one of tens of thousands of people taking in the 2009 Traverse City Film Festival. He snapped this shot of one of balloon artist Jason Hackenworth's fanciful sea creatures on the opening night of the festival and we're using it today on a brief article about how the festival is bringing inspiration to the lives of youths in our On Location: Traverse City Film Festival coverage.

The photo is part of Mike's Traverse City Film Festival set. His other sets include Birds and Nature (slideshow).

Check out Mike's Flickriver.

See an interview with Jason Hackenworth over on TED.

Ann Arbor Street Fair by Photo Credit Peter Leix

Established in 1960, the Ann Arbor Street Art Fair is the Original of the now four award-winning Ann Arbor Art Fairs:

• The Ann Arbor Street Art Fair, the Original
• The State Street Area Art Fair
• The Ann Arbor Summer Art Fair
• Ann Arbor’s South University Art Fair

Together, the fairs attract over 500,000 attendees from across the nation. The Original Fair was named the Number One Art Fair in the country by AmericanStyle magazine readers survey (October 2004) and has made the Top Ten Fairs and Festivals list every year since.

Our mission is to increase public knowledge and appreciation for contemporary fine arts and fine crafts by creating opportunities that connect artists, the Ann Arbor community and the general public to their mutual benefit, culminating in a top quality juried street art fair.

The Street Art Fair is set on North University Avenue and on the University of Michigan’s Central Campus, amidst most elegant architecture and beautifully landscaped pedestrian walkways, including the landmark Burton Carillon Tower.

Interested in learning more about our history? Check out these sections from Street Beat, a unique, quirky guide to Ann Arbor and the Art Fair. You may download Street Beat in its entirety.

To celebrate 50 years of originality, the Ann Arbor Street Art Fair is exhibiting original posters, art, and photographs spanning its first half-century. Visitors to the exhibit can explore the history of the Fair through narrative panels chronicling each decade from its humble beginnings to its place today as one of the most highly regarded art fairs in North America. Included in the exhibit is an original retablo by artist Nicario Jiminez depicting the Ann Arbor Street Art Fair. Also check out the online collection of images from the history of the Fair that is a part of AADL’s picture Ann Arbor collection.

Bubble and Droplet. by G0Da

It seems that many media outlets are preaching the "staycation" this year. We say cut some corners, pack a lunch, brew your own coffee, just do what you have to do and support the festivals, events, cities and businesses that are making things happen. You might just have some fun and create some great memories in the process.

As usual we by no means have listed all the events happening around Michigan. Add ones we missed (with links) in the comments below!

July Quotes

"Many public-school children seem to know only two dates: 1492 and 4th of July; and as a rule they don't know what happened on either occasion. - Mark Twain

"Patriotism is the last refuge of scoundrels." - Mark Twain

"Live in each season as it passes: breathe the air, drink the drink, taste the fruit." – Henry David Thoreau

"You know, when you get your first asparagus, or your first acorn squash, or your first really good tomato of the season, those are the moments that define the cook's year. I get more excited by that than anything else." - Mario Batali

"It's difficult to think anything but pleasant thoughts while eating a homegrown tomato." - Lewis Grizzard

Fast Facts - Wikipedia

• The second half of the year commences in July
• The birthstone for July is a red ruby
• July was renamed for Julius Caesar... Previously, it was called Quintilis...

Stuff To Do!

June 12 - July 5
Ann Arbor Summer Festival Ann Arbor
The Ann Arbor Summer Festival is an exhilarating celebration of performing arts, outdoor entertainment, and community spirit. Each year, this three-and-a-half-week cultural and social event offers dozens of performances, activities, screenings, and more, with eclectic music, dance, comedy, film, visual arts, and family fun.

Now celebrating its 26th season, the festival has invigorated the cultural life of the community for over two and a half decades. It brings the world to Ann Arbor: innovative artists, enthusiastic audiences, eager students, curious visitors, and anyone looking to be inspired and entertained on a Michigan summer evening.

July 1 - 5
Comerica Cityfest Detroit
Comerica Cityfest is a five-day outdoor food and culture rich entertainment street festival in Detroit’s historic New Center over each Fourth of July weekend. The event exemplifies city life, (what it is and what it could be), in one of Detroit’s fastest growing 24-hour districts.

A diverse and family friendly crowd looks forward each year to our free national and local talent on four stages, over 40 Michigan restaurants selling “tastes” of their specialties, free stage shows, activities for children, and a marketplace of unique Detroit products and memorabilia. Comerica Cityfest is free and open to the public.

July 1 - 5
Battle Creek Field of Flight Air Show and Balloon Festival Battle Creek
Twenty Six Years and Counting...The US Air Force Thunderbirds and Over 60 Hot-Air Balloons Headline Acts at the Field of Flight Air Show and Balloon Festival.

Appearing for the 26th time in Battle Creeks Field of Flight and Air Show history, will be the United States Air Force Thunderbirds. Featured as one of America’s top-precision aerial demonstration teams, the Thunderbirds, over 60 hot-air balloons and an array of aerial demonstration teams will color the skies over W.K. Kellogg Airport during the 2009 event that will be held the week of July 1 - July 5.

As one of Michigan’s largest family festivals, the event began in 1980 with only hot-air balloons and has grown to become one of the largest air shows in the country. "The hot-air balloons will always have a special place at our event, said Barbara Haluszka, Executive Director. "But adding the air shows has definitely put us on the map in the aviation world."

July 2 - 5
Rothbury Rothbury
This year the Rothbury Music Festival takes place July 2-5, 2009 in Rothbury, Michigan (near Muskegon). RothburyFour days of music on six stages feature some of the biggest musical acts around.

The Rothbury Think Tank will be focused on finding energy independence and feature the innovators, entrepreneurs, thought leaders, celebs, and rabble rousers who – in this time of economic, energy and climate crisis – are offering a green path to a brighter future.

July 4
MichiganFireworks.com - Independence Day Michigan
Currently listing 372 Fireworks displays in Michigan for 2009!

July 4 - 12
National Cherry Festival Traverse City
The National Cherry Festival features over 150 events including free air shows over the Bay, colorful parades & marching bands, music shows, sporting events, rides & carnival games on the midway, pie-eating contests, clean blue skies, warm sunshine, crowds of smiling faces, and loads of luscious cherries prepared every way you can imagine!

July 6 - 12
Common Ground Lansing
Common Ground is situated in downtown Lansing along the banks of the Grand River in Adado Riverfront Park. Common Ground is an event for all your senses. This annual celebration features an outstanding line-up of musical acts, focusing on top-level, national, contemporary music performers, scores of food vendors, and a dynamic display of outdoor interactive activities for kids. With an attractive, intimate venue, state-of-art production and a comprehensive array of patron amenities, the festival is the premier special event of the summer in the greater Lansing region.

July 10 - 11
Idlewild Music Fest Idlewild
In its heyday, the Idlewild Resort area was the place to perform for musicians and other entertainers who had already "arrived" and for those that were hoping to get noticed. The Idlewild Music Fest recognizes these musical roots with a three-day celebration. Coordinated and supported by business leaders, the nonprofit community and faith community of Lake County, the Idlewild Music Fest brings an unmistakable beat back to echo across Idlewild Lake and Williams Island, if just for awhile.

July 10 - 11
Michigan Elvisfest Ypsilanti
The world-renowned Michigan Elvisfest began in 2000 in Ypsilanti, Michigan's Historic Depot Town. Beautiful Riverside Park is the place where Elvis fans flock by the thousands every July to pay homage to the King of Rock & Roll and to hear the most award-winning professional Elvis Tribute Artists in North America, as well as other talented Legend Tribute Artists.

July 10 - 12
Blissfest Cross Village
he 29th Blissfest Music Festival will present a world of innovative folk and roots music and dance at the Festival Farm in unique and picturesque northern Michigan. It is truly a blissful musical weekend to be shared with families, friends and music-lovers of all ages. This year's 29th Celebration will feature Jamband, Bluegrass, Blues, Cajun, Celtic, Folk, Jazz, Latin, Ethnic and World music and dance. Follow the links above for all the details of the 29th annual festival. Remember, Life is Bliss so follow your Bliss to the Blissfest!

July 11 - Aug 9
Silver Leaf Renaissance Faire Battle Creek
Neither heat, rain nor scary beast will shut our gates. They will open at 10:00 am to the Queen's delight and close at 7:00 pm with the children's sighs. Come spend your day with us.

Welcome to the Silver Leaf Renaissance Faire - West Michigan premier Artisan Marketplace. With over 100 vendors selling their wares and crafts, you will find everything from turkey legs to wood-carving, leather to silks, and blacksmiths to fairy wings. Silver Leaf offers vendors that will appeal to both men and women and the young and the young at heart. Shop ‘til you drop at the Silver Leaf Renaissance Faire.

July 14 - Aug 2
The Michigan Shakespeare Festival Jackson
The Michigan Shakespeare Festival has been presenting the timeless themes and glorious language of William Shakespeare since 1995, growing each year into a premier regional event that draws respected actors from across the nation, and satisfied audiences from throughout the Midwest.

Check out their Face Book page!

July 15 - 18
Ann Arbor Street Art Fair Ann Arbor
Established in 1960, the Ann Arbor Street Art Fair is the Original of the now four award-winning Ann Arbor Art Fairs:

* The Ann Arbor Street Art Fair, the Original
* The State Street Area Art Fair
* The Ann Arbor Summer Art Fair
* Ann Arbor’s South University Art Fair

Together, the fairs attract over 500,000 attendees from across the nation. The Original Fair was named the Number One Art Fair in the country by AmericanStyle magazine readers survey (October 2004) and has made the Top Ten Fairs and Festivals list every year since.

July 16 - 19
Venetian Festival St. Joseph
The name implies gracious glides on a glowing river and the gentle sounds of water rippling as gondoliers pole their slender boats and sing soft love songs to couples snuggled in the bows. Such were the hot days and long nights in Venice, Italy, where Venetian Festivals started so many years ago.

In St. Joseph, they still celebrate hot July days and long summer nights with boat rides and love songs and couples holding hands. The Venetian Festival on the St. Joseph River is all of that and so much more.

July 16 - 19
Great Lakes Sea Kayak Symposium Grand Marais
The oldest kayaking symposium on the Great Lakes welcomes paddlers of all ages and abilities for a weekend packed with fun and learning opportunities. Grand Marais has a protected harbor that is ideal for class sessions and skills practice while offering a perfect starting point for unforgettable trips along the scenic lakeshore.

July 18 - 19
Concert of Colors Detroit
The Concert of Colors is metro Detroit’s free annual diversity music festival. It is presented by ACCESS/Arab American National Museum, New Detroit Inc. and the Detroit Symphony Orchestra (DSO) with the goal of bringing together metro Detroit’s diverse communities and ethnic groups by presenting musical acts from around the world. Over its 16-year history, the festival has become a beloved highlight of metro Detroit’s summer festival season.

July 17 - 19
Michigan Storytellers Festival Flint
See website for details...

July 17 - 19
Hiawatha Music Festival Marquette
The Hiawatha Festival is the only event of its size and scope in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Without Hiawatha, local performers and fans would have to travel between four and six hours to the nearest festivals of its size and type.

Each year's event features traditional-music styles that include bluegrass, old-time, Cajun, Celtic, acoustic blues and folk - including singer/songwriters - and dance. Mainstage acts include nationally known performers as well as regional and local favorites.

July 17 - 19
Quake on the Lake Waterford
Over the past 9 years, “Quake on the Lake” has gained a reputation as one of the premier summertime events in/around Oakland County, Michigan. It has become a “must attend” event for North American Inboard Hydroplane owners and drivers; and since its inception, nearly 300,000 people have witnessed world-record racing performances from the top teams in the business. The event is the proud recipient of 15 American Power Boat Association (APBA) records being set in 5 different racing classes making Pontiac Lake one of the fastest one-mile race courses in the country!

July 18 - 19
Ragtime Street Fair Dearborn
Come dance, enjoy and celebrate Ragtime in Greenfield Village all weekend long. Our popular new signature event focuses on the early “jazz age” of 20th century America’s first decades. The unique, ragged rhythms of this hugely popular genre present the background for two days of dancing, music, drama, parades and fantastic food. Ragtime Street Fair is free to members and free with Greenfield Village admission.

July 24 - 25
Michigan Brewers Guild Summer Beer Festival Ypsilanti
The Michigan Brewers Guild’s Summer Beer Festival is a showcase event featuring well over 200 beers from more than 30 Michigan breweries.

July 24 - 26
Yale Bologna Festival Yale
Every July Yale plays host to the Yale Bologna Festival, a 3 day weekend event that closes the streets and transforms this small community of just under 2,000 to a gathering of over 20,000 Bologna starved party-goers! A tradition in Yale since 1989, this festival has grown considerably since its humble beginnings. The festival draws people from all around Michigan as well as other states, eager to see who will be the next King and Queen of Bologna. The Bologna Festival includes such events as the famed outhouses races, a street dance, fireworks and a parade down Main Street that continues to grow each year.

July 25 - 26
Art On The Rocks Marquette
Located in a beautiful wooded area on the shore of Lake Superior in north Marquette. Enjoy the 51st annual Art On The Rocks at Presque Isle Park.

July 24 - Aug 2
Coast Guard Festival Grand Haven
As we celebrate the 219th birthday of the United States Coast Guard and the 84th anniversary of the founding of the Grand Haven Coast Guard Festival, as we know it today, they welcome you and thank you for your support of these gallant men and women who serve us all year long...the members of the United States Coast Guard!

Enjoy your visit...There is only one COAST GUARD CITY USA and we're ready to show you a wonderful time!

July 28 - Aug 2
Traverse City Film Festival Traverse City
The Traverse City Film Festival has grown to become one of the largest film festivals in the Midwest, and one of the most respected in the country. Last year, there were over 80,000 admissions to nearly 100 screenings, a number of them U.S. or world premieres. A special emphasis is given to foreign films, American independents, documentaries, and films which have been overlooked but deserve the attention of a public starved to see a good movie.

July 30 - Aug 2
Woodtick Music Festival Hermansville
The Woodtick Music Festival is a home-grown, Upper Peninsula style shindig featuring a variety of regional and not so regional bands who all have one thing in common....they're damn good!

urban hope by buckshot.jones

Throughout each month we post items of Michicentric interest to our Michitwitter page. In case you missed them here is a look back at just a few of the items for the month June. If you find these interesting there are plenty more for you to check out. We encourage you to add any news items, events, links to vids, podcasts or whatever you find interesting about the Great Lakes State!

The photo featured in this post is from the Absolute Michigan Flickr pool and was shot by the very talented buckshot.jones. He states:

This little garden is on the near west side of Detroit. The significance for me is it may very well be on an empty lot where one of my mother's childhood homes once stood. I also find it significant because it makes a statement about the resourcefulness of the folks in Detroit- a turning lemons into lemonade kind of a thing. Around the corner, right off Cass Avenue, sits a vacant corner lot. The locals have salvaged old couches and discarded auto bench seats and have fashioned a small park with the make- do seating placed under of the shade of a few low hanging maple trees.

A Sampling from Michitwitter June 2009

The folks attempting to save Tiger Stadium lost their fight in preventing the demolition and the Freep let us know in their article Detroit commission votes to level Tiger Stadium.

A Detroit city commission has voted to demolish the section of Tiger Stadium left standing after much of the historic ballpark was knocked down last year.

The city’s Economic Development Corp. board voted 7-1 today to authorize the complete demolition of the stadium.

We often talk about how the buy local revolution and urban farming is gaining popularity and that farming is once again becoming a viable career choice. The State News ran the article More students opting to take on farming opportunities in summer, as career choices.

Growing up in metro Detroit, Adam Montri, outreach coordinator for the MSU Student Organic Farm, didn’t consider farming to be a career choice. “I definitely grew up in the suburbs and thought of agriculture as something you did on the weekend or after school or that kind of thing,” he said. Now, Montri, who graduated from MSU in 2001, owns his own organic farm in Bath, Mich.

In our state's quest to harness the power of wind a report was released that the Thumb area is ranked #1. From Crains Detroit Business West Michigan, Thumb best for wind energy, report says

Three regions in West Michigan and one region in the Thumb area have the state’s highest potential for wind energy projects, according to a report released Tuesday by a state board.

We were shown a ray of light shining through the darkness of our current economic quagmire. The Freep reported Economist: Michigan to start to recover in 2010

Comerica Bank's chief economist predicted today that Michigan's battered economy will finally start to recover next year, aided by a rebound in the national economy.

In another positive story on Michigan's economic turnaround Michigan.gov announced Granholm Announces Companies Investing Over $247 Million, Creating More Than 11,000 New Jobs in Michigan

Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today announced that Michigan's aggressive strategy to diversify the economy and attract investment to Michigan has resulted in 15 job-creating projects, which will generate more than 11,125 new jobs, retain another 846 and bring more than $247 million in new investment to communities across the state.

One of the more interesting and unusual biit of news came from mlive.com in their story University of Michigan researchers find clues at bottom of Lake Huron to ancient hunters

University of Michigan researchers have found the first archaeological evidence of ancient human hunting activity preserved under the Great Lakes.

Using detailed government data on lake floor topography, a research vessel and a remote mini-rover equipped with a camera, scientists found what they believe are hunting pits, camps and rock structures called caribou "drive lines" on the bottom of Lake Huron.

Much discussion has been made of late that the revitalization of our auto industry would be to go back to square one and the inventors, entrepeneurs and small company jump into the game for some fresh thoughts. Wired.com brought us Tesla Motors Founder: Let Me Run Detroit

Elon Musk has tackled electric cars, space ships and modular renewable energy stations. Now he wants a real challenge: running Detroit.

“When the mess gets sorted out, I’d like to have a conversation with whoever’s in charge at the time — the car czar or whoever — and say ‘I’d like to run your plants, if you don’t mind,’” Musk said, starting that conversation Monday at Wired’s first-ever business conference, Disruptive by Design in Manhattan.

Last but not lease Detroit's art community received some huge support and encouragement. The Detroit News reported Kresge Foundation steps up gifts to Detroit causes

Call it an artist's jackpot, or a clever gambit to help Michigan hold on to some of its best creative talent.

Today, 18 Detroit-area artists officially will win $25,000 each, the first awards of an unprecedented no-strings-attached annual fellowship program designed to keep the area's top visual artists from leaving the state in search of greener pastures.

So we present to you:

Be A Tourist In Your Own Town brought to you by the fine folks at the Greater Lansing Convention and Visitors Bureau. Consider organizing one in your area!

About Be A Tourist In Your Own Town

Fifteen years ago, the Greater Lansing Convention and Visitors Bureau created this event to increase community awareness of it's attractions and the tourism industry's impact on the area. So once again the doors are open for you to explore culture and creativity in mid-Michigan.

As Lansing celebrates its 150th anniversary, take this opportunity to enjoy attractions that highlight both Lansing’s unique history as well as its innovative and progressive future. This year they have included old favorites such as Impression 5 Science Center, Potter Park Zoo and the Michigan Historical Museum, and added new hot spots like the FRAG Center, MSU’s Breslin Center, WKAR Studios and taste the new “Capital City Sundae” ice cream flavor at the MSU Dairy Store. You can view a complete list of the participating places to go and things right here.

How it Works:

For only $1 you can purchase a “passport” which allows you FREE admission to more than 60 area attractions, local businesses, and special activities on May 30, 2009 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. **Ages 3 and under do not require a passport. Get from place to place with CATA. For only 50 cents you will receive a stamp which will allow you to ride the Be A Tourist routes for the rest of the day for no extra charge.

Check out a slideshow of the Lansing area from the Absolute Michigan Flickr pool!

• 230 artist exhibitors from all over the U.S. and Canada
• 8 emerging artists affiliated with Michigan universities, colleges or art schools.
• Free performances on two stages highlighting a wide variety of music.
• Free arts activities for children and families.
• An international-style food court offering flavors from around the world.

East Lansing is a charming University town with a wide variety of shops, restaurants, galleries and the beautiful Michigan State University campus across the street. The East Lansing Art Festival is produced by the Art Festival Board of Directors under the auspices of the East Lansing Arts Commission/City of East Lansing.

The East Lansing Art Festival is held the weekend preceding Memorial Day weekend. The festival operates 10am-6pm on Saturday and 10am-5pm on Sunday.

Michigan State University Arts and Crafts Show

Celebrate spring at the Michigan State University Arts and Crafts Show on May 16th and 17th. In its 45th year, the show has more than 325 artists from across the nation and offers something for everyone.

The MSU Arts and Crafts Show is one of the largest arts and crafts shows in the state. This year’s show includes many returning favorites as well as brand new artists. There will be a broad range of exhibitors selling handmade items. Items include; candles, furniture, jewelry, home and yard décor, aromatherapy, clothing, children’s toys, painting, photography, pottery, sculpture and much more.

The Arts and Crafts Show is held outside on the grounds of the MSU Union. This show is held on Saturday and Sunday with over 300 exhibitors displaying items in a park-like setting on the MSU campus. Most exhibitors utilize portable structures for their displays. The UAB office can provide current booth fee prices. The East Lansing Art Festival is staged one block north of campus with over 225 exhibitors. More than 60,000 people annually attend these two outdoor shows.

The show takes place on the grounds of the MSU Union, near the corner of Grand River Ave. and Abbot Rd. in East Lansing. The show hours are Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Sunday 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Admission to the show is FREE!

heypat (Patrick Simpson) says he has many hobbies, and photography is just one of them. He's also one of the 5 photographers in the May 8th Exposure.Detroit show.

I'm sure he won't mind if I use some space to say that the Opening Party is Friday, May 8th, 2009 from 7-10 PM at the Bean & Leaf Cafe in Royal Oak and that the other photographers are Mark Orlowski, Cherie Stangis, Alanna St. Laurent and Christian Spencer.

Be sure to check this photo out bigger and on black. This photo is from his Packard Motors Detroit set (slideshow) and his other sets include 2008 ICE Flows Lake St Clair, My Top 25 Most Interesting and Dequindre Cut.

Take a swim in his Flickriver.

inducement by powerbooktrance

Yesterday the city of Grand Rapids announced the ArtPrize, a competition open to artists of all kinds from around the world that will award nearly one-half million dollars to prize winners, including $250,000 to the artist who receives the most public votes. The display and voting will run from September 23 - October 10, 2009:

“It’s time to reboot the conversation between artists and the public. ArtPrize will be a celebration of art, design, and innovation that will bring artists and the public together like never before,” said ArtPrize creator Rick DeVos.

The city of Grand Rapids will become art gallery. ArtPrize art works and performances, professional and amateur, will be exhibited at hundreds of venues, all within a three-square mile area in Grand Rapids’ downtown riverfront district. The city has offered up parks and bridges for outdoor venue displays. Scores of businesses will convert lobbies and public space for displays.

They are holding a town hall meeting on Monday (Apr 27) to explain the ArtPrize and you can view the press conference with Rick DeVos announcing the competition from mLive.

Planet Detroit by paulhitz

National Public Radio's "Morning Edition" is currently running a series titled "Remaking Michigan, Retooling Detroit" which explores Detroit's struggle to regain vitality in the face of seemingly insurmountable economic conditions. It shows that there is beacon of hope out there if approached with creative, innovative thought mixed thoroughly with a good dose of bold entrepreneurship and commitment.

Once in a while
you get shown the light
in the strangest of places
if you look at it right

~Robert Hunter

Michigan, the national leader in recession, depends on an auto industry that will never be as big as it was. So how does the Detroit area diversify? Who's hiring, or investing in something new? Morning Edition reports on Detroit's desperate race to replace the jobs that the automakers eliminate.

Features in the NPR series include:

Kalamazoo: A Potential Beacon for Detroit?

Detroit Industry: The Murals of Diego Rivera

Scholar: It's Time For The Post Automotive Era

Smaller Firms May Come To Michigan's Rescue

Michigan, Detroit Prep Themselves For A New Era

Main Street Businesses by Eridony

On September 15-16, 2009 Lansing will host the 2009 Michigan Downtown Conference. The annual conference brings hundreds of civic and business leaders from across the State and features an award ceremony to recognize excellence in our Michigan downtowns.

The conference organizers are seeking an exceptional, hand-crafted, Michigan-made award to reflect the positive image of our determined downtowns.

Get all the information right here! (616k pdf)

In Rob Bliss calls artists of all ages to downtown Grand Rapids, Rapid Growth reports that social networking maven Bliss (who Facebooked up a giant pillow fight and a the world record zombie walk in Grand Rapids last year) is at it again:

Bliss plans to hand out 10,000 30,000 pieces of sidewalk chalk at Rosa Parks Circle on Saturday, April 18, to see what collective creative energy will bring to the core city. He hopes the Sidewalk Chalk Flood will bring the most age diverse crowd to downtown Grand Rapids of all his prior social experiments, such as the pillow fight that received national television coverage on CBS News last fall.

"The chalk flood is really meant to appeal to the child in us all," says Bliss, a sophomore at Grand Rapids Community College studying vocal and piano performance. "We hope everyone from experienced artists to families with kids will let their creative side come through that Saturday."

Chalk will be distributed free of charge from noon to 5 p.m., primarily funded by the Downtown Alliance, with support from the Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts and Grand Rapids Community College. Artwork on public pavement only; anything on buildings is strictly verboten.

Click through for the Grand Rapids Sidewalk Chalk Facebook group and if you get photos, definitely add them to the Absolute Michigan pool on Flickr!

Where's Waldo? by murn

On her blog Relish, photographer Myra Klarman has posted Marching toward FestiFools 2009, a great collection of photographs from snooping around the studio over the last several weeks to document the massive “behind-the-scenes” effort that goes into creating the 1-hour spectacle that is the annual FestiFools.

FestiFools 2009 takes place in Ann Arbor this Sunday (April 5) at 4 PM sharp in downtown Ann Arbor (Main St., between Washington and William). You can get all the details at festifools.org and even volunteer to help if you want.

Here's a great slideshow of FestiFools photos from the Absolute Michigan pool on Flickr!

Untitled by Vanessa Miller
Vanessa has a great set of photos from
allied media conference oh8

Wiretap's Jenny Lee has a great article called In Detroit: Arsenal of Creativity. It begins:

“Michigan will be the next film capitol of the world,” Clint Eastwood said in a recent interview following the release of his new film Gran Torino, shot in Detroit. The state’s generous tax incentives for film production have spurred a boost in jobs in a year that's seen declines in nearly every other industry. While it's exciting to see the rise of film-based enterprise in Michigan, we can't rely on it, or any single industry to fill the enormous hole left by the decline of the auto industry. Amid the current crisis we have an opportunity to fill the gap in our region's economy with diverse local initiatives, including community-based media, which thrives off the city's creative past and present.

It continues and ends well as it does a great job of introducing you to Allied Media Projects (AMP) and looking at some of last year's conference recommendations like building community wireless and broadband, cultivating local music and teaching media arts. You should go read it.

AMP hosts the annual Allied Media Conference in Detroit, which attracts North America's most creative and skilled media makers and social justice organizers. The 11th AMC takes place July 16-19, 2009 - check it out!

Ginny, You Are My Shining Star by docksidepress

We have compiled an extensive list of Valentine's Day Events, Gift Ideas, Getaways & Dating Ideas, Giveaways and Parties for Singles, Couples & Kids. With Absolute Michigan's Mondo Valentine's Day Rundown you have no excuse in not charting out a stellar V-Day. Just scroll through this seemingly endless page of options and I think you will find something that tickles your fancy and hopefully that your significant other for this year and for those to come. On to the list....

Valentines Day Events Around Michigan

Brian Vander Ark
Valentines dinner and show packages! In conjunction with the special show Brian is doing, he teamed up with THE BOB in Grand Rapids to offer some package deals of dinner and show tickets. See the flyer HERE to get more info and the number to call.A Valentine's Day Celebration Of Love Songs with Brian Vander ArkWhen: February 14, 2009 - 8:30pmWhere: Grand Rapids Ballet Theatre (Wege Theatre) (341 Ellsworth Avenue SW, Grand Rapids, MI.)Tickets: $20 Reserved SeatingDescription: Brian Vander Ark performs in the beautiful Wege Theater. He will be performing love songs from his catalogue, and also classic love songs from the 60's and 70's. He'll also be taking online requests and dedications (via email). Joining him are his wife, Lux Land, Randy Sly on the grand piano and AJ Dunning from The Verve Pipe. This will be a great after dinner treat!Tickets are on sale now. Here's the link to the Ticketmaster page online: TICKETMASTER LINK People can also order by phone at 616.456.3333 or by coming in person to the Grand Rapids Ballet Company. - Visit Brian's website

LSO Pops: Broadway Romance
Wharton Center for Performing Arts
David Wiley, Guest Conductor
Christina Saffran Ashford, Soprano
Norman Large, Tenor
This Valentine's Day, join us in the Wharton Center for some of Broadway's finest love songs, including favorites from South Pacific, Guys and Dolls, West Side Story, The Music Man, Camelot, My Fair Lady, The Sound of Music, Les Miserables and Phantom of the Opera.
Click here to purchase tickets. - Visit their website

The Elixir of Love
Luscious. Humorous. Magical. Romantic. Donizetti’s charming and sentimental score spins a lighthearted vision of love, as the humble and young Nemorino pines for the breathtaking beauty Adina. His belief in the power of a magic love potion allows this tender comedy to become a gentle expose on romance, class and hope, all leading up to one of opera’s happiest endings. By Gaetano Donizetti. Sung in Italian with English Titles. Opera Grand Rapids, DeVos Performance Hall, Grand Rapids, (616) 742-6500 Devos Performance Hall

The Detroit Repertory Theatre's "RED NIGHT" BENEFIT - Celebrates the Drama, Passion, and Fun of the Color Red
On Saturday, February 14, 2009, the Detroit Repertory Theatre welcomes the public to an evening of drama, romance, a silent auction, champagne, and appetizers at the Board of Trustees' annual "RED NIGHT" benefit beginning at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $35 each, or $50 for two. All ticket buyers also get a chance at door prizes like chocolate, flowers and gift baskets by calling 313-868-1347 for RED NIGHT reservations. Proceeds from the evening will be used to support the Theatre's Guardian Fund. The Rep is located at 13103 Woodrow Wilson in the heart of Detroit, 48238. More information may be found at www.detroitreptheatre.com

My Folky Valentine at The Ark
What better time than Valentine's Day to explore how married couples make music together? "My Folky Valentine” is The Ark's annual celebration of romance! Each year we present a few of Michigan's top musical couples, in the round during Valentine's Day week. Your hosts, Annie and Rod Capps, have invited some of their most talented friends: Allison Downey and John Austin, the Milroys, J. Oscar and Lauran Bittinger, and Jan Krist and Alan Finkbeiner, to share the stage for an evening of grand collaboration and anything but love songs! . . . Okay, well, maybe a few love songs.

Tickets $15 Buy Online or Buy In Person

Detroit: All You Need is Love, Classic Mystery Tour
Celebrate Valentine's Day with the Fab Four's greatest hits; Penny Lane, I am the Walrus, Yesterday, and of course All You Need is Love. More than a just a rock show, this is a night of Beatles tunes sung, played and performed exactly as they were written. It's the best of the Beatles like you've never heard before: LIVE! - Visit their website

Heart Tugging Tunes
The Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra will perform heart-tugging classics from Tchaikovsky's "Romeo and Juliet" to "Unchained Melody" from the 1990 romantic drama "Ghost" during "Valentine Hearts." The concert, which will feature Grand Rapids guest vocalist Kathy Wagner and conductor John Varineau, is scheduled at 8 p.m. Feb. 14 at Chenery Auditorium, 714 S. Westnedge Ave. Tickets range from $10 (for students) to $40.

For more information, call 387-2300 or go to www.kalamazoosymphony.com

Breathe Owl Breathe Valentine's Day Concert
Join us for chocolates and a special concert on Valentine’s Day

Breathe Owl Breathe sounds as intimately familiar with woods and wild as their band name suggests, but there is an air of cosmopolitan sophistication, too. Micah Middaugh, Andréa Moreno-Beals, and Trevor Hobbs weave songs that are simultaneously playful and thoughtful, simple and intricate. Their layering of guitar, cello, banjo, drum set and harmonizing vocals, as well as some unusual musical uses of instruments and other found objects, results in a very creative and original sound. 8:00 pm. Tickets $12 Adults/ $5 Students available at Leelanau Books in Leland and Brilliant Books in Suttons Bay.

This event is sponsored by the Friends of Fine Arts group at Suttons Bay Schools and all proceeds go directly to fine art programs in the schools. Old Art Building

Unique Valentines Gifts

Michigan Wines for your Valentines
Valentine Wine Recommendations: Sparkling Wines - Go with anything; but especially diamonds and gold!! Or, just do the sparkling wine. Sparkling wines can be served before, during and after dinner.Michigan Wines

Basket Full of Gifts
Baskets Full of Gifts was founded in 1999 to fulfill the gift-giving needs of businesses and individuals throughout Northern Michigan. The company specializes in providing private and corporate gift solutions to:

• Celebrate holidays and weddings
• Thank employees, customers and business associates
• Commemorate birthdays, anniversaries and store openings

To order baskets call (888) 388-9404 or visit Baskets Full of Gfits

Speechless Chocolates
Alpena chocolatier Danielle Mulvena keeps winter in the Northern hinterland lively by dreaming up confections: Absinthe truffles; Medjool dates stuffed with sherry caramelized almonds and then coated in dark chocolate and smoked sea salt; tangy sweet strawberry balsamic caramels. Find her Speechless Chocolates online and in gourmet shops across the North.
For more information, please visit Speechless Chocolates

lil' Miss cupcake
lil' Miss Cupcake is bringing the Cupcake Craze to Grand Rapids, MI! lil' Miss Cupcake is dedicated to bringing you yummy homemade cupcakes that look fabulous and taste amazing! Let us do the work for your holidays, birthdays, bridal/baby showers, special events, or just because! We welcome you to experience happiness in every lil' bite with lil' Miss Cupcake! Please call 616.340.3496 or visit lil' Miss Cupcake

Patricia's Chocolates
Patricia’s Chocolate is an artisan selection of premier ganache chocolates and caramels. Handcrafted from only the finest domestic and imported French couverture cocoas in the commercial kitchen in her home in Grand Haven, Michigan, there are no artificial flavorings, additives, or preservatives in Patricia’s chocolates. For more information call 616.842.5999 or visit Patricia's Chocolates

The perfect Valentine: A love letter
Linda S Mah of the Kalamazoo Gazette gives tips on how to write your own love letter.
"If your love is incomparable, then perhaps your Valentine's Day sentiment should be, too. So you might want to pass up the Hallmark display and attempt a more singular expression of all the wonder, devotion and awe your loved one inspires in you.You might want to write a love letter." To read the rest of the article, click here The perfect Valentine

River of Glass
Elegant gifts of blown glass including ornaments, art platters and plates, bowls and vases, paper weights, and drinking glasses. Some pieces are the size of a shot glass while others are 3 feet tall. The gallery is open for buyers and browsers Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am until 6 pm and Sunday from noon until 5 pm. For more information call 586-954-4994 or visit www.river-of-glass.com/

Traverse City Central High School Choral-Aires
You can send your sweetheart something special this year by confessing your love through song. But don't worry, you aren't the one who has to do the singing. A quartet from the Traverse City Central High School Choral-Aires will do it for you. The valentine's will be delivered this Friday and Saturday. For $50 you get two songs, a truffle from Charles Layton Chocolates, a personalized card and a red rose and vase, all delivered in person. There is one stipulation, you do have to live within 15 miles of downtown Traverse City. If you live too far away or would like to spend a little less, for $10 you can get an E-Valentine. A video link attached to the e-mail will sing your sweetheart two songs. E-Valentines will be sent on the Valentine's Day. For more information call 231.590.1075.

Heart-shaped Valentine's Day Cakes
Bella Creamery

Great Harvest Bread Honey Bear
Great Harvest's Honey Bear, made out of whole wheat bread, is not sweet and that's the point. Many people don't like to receive gifts that are sweet and fattening for Valentine's Day. The bear satisfies that. The Honey Bear is only $7.95. For those who like chocolate, the bakery's Brownie Hearts, chocolate bread with dried cherries, is also popular for $8.50. - Visit their website

Stop & Kiss Card Game
Stop & Kiss, invented by Lynn Baldwin of Livonia, is a unique card game designed especially for couples. Celebrate your relationship. Connect with the one you love. Take time out of your busy lives to relive memorable moments and focus on your shared future. Stop & Kiss Card Game

Valentines Cards from Michigan Companies
Gallery 19 , Grand Rapids
Avanti Press , Detroit
Burke Design , Ontonagon
Veggie Cards , Ann Arbor

Create your own Valentine with Homemade Paper
We are your best source for all your handmade paper art and paper crafting needs. We are continually working to bring you the finest creative handmade paper, unique papers and crafting accessories you will find. Journal, notebooks, and crafting embellishments also available. Creative Papers Online, 738 Airport Blvd. Ste. 2, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48108 Toll-Free: 1-800-PAPER-40 (727-3740)

Make your Valentine's Card Stand Out with a Cloth Envelope
Our unique cloth envelopes are a new and exciting way to send your message. These colorful envelopes beg to be opened and will stand out even in a large stack of mail. Not only will they get opened but because of their beauty they will be saved to be seen by others. Made of durable cotton, they can even be reused. 5581 Trager Rd, Traverse City, 231-995-9515 Cloth Envelope

Enjoy a Gourmet Night In with A Personal Chef
The Original Wandering Gourmet Personal Chef Service, presents Michigan’s finest in fresh, home-cooked meals, ready when you are! The Original Wandering Gourmet will create your menu based on your tastes and dietary preferences; or simply link to our Menu page for quick selection ordering. On your scheduled cook day, The Original Wandering Gourmet will arrive at your home bringing all of the ingredients and equipment needed to prepare your meals. The Original Wandering Gourmet will travel anywhere within 50 miles of our office in Warren to cook for you at no additional charge. Special arrangements can be made for greater distances. Gift certificates available. For more information call 586.212.1599 or visit The Original Wandering Gourmet.

Romantic Valentine Getaways

Amway Grand Romance Plus Package
Romance Package Includes:

• Overnight accommodations for two in a Classic Guest Room featuring a plush Concierge bed with pillow top mattress, down pillows and cozy linen sheets for one relaxing evening
• Complimentary bottle of wine; choice of Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, White Zinfandel or Sparkling Wine
• One (1) $50 Food & Beverage Voucher
• Truffles
• Complimentary use of the Plaza Fitness Center
• Valet or Self parking
• Late check-out (2pm)

For more information call 1.800.253.3590 or Click here to make your reservations online. - Visit their website for more details

Valentine Lodge
Our Bed and Breakfast is a three-story Victorian situated on two acres of shady garden in a residential area within walking distance of Lake Michigan, a half mile from Douglas Beach and a mile from Oval Beach.
Call for reservations at (269) 857-4598 or visit Valentine Lodge

Country Hermitage Bed & Breakfast
Active couples who love getting out in the fresh air and enjoying Northern Michigan's winter wonderland will love the Country Hermitage Bed and Breakfast's ski and romance package. You'll enjoy two nights accommodations in the B&B's elegant rooms, a two-day rental of cross-country skis or snowshoes, a bottle of Chateau Chantal's sparkling wine, Celebrate, and two souvenir Country Hermitage B&B champagne flutes. Set out and explore the B&B's 400-acre cherry orchards, woodlands and adjoining golf courses on your cross-country skis or snowshoes. Or visit the many wildlife areas close by that have miles of trails for the novice or experienced skier/snowshoer. Want to go the extra mile for your Valentine? Add on one of the inn's special extras: an in-house massage, a bouquet of flowers or chocolates. Call 231-938-5930 for reservations.

Valentine's Weekend at Chateau Chantel
Chateau Chantal, Traverse City,
Tailor you stay with Chateau Chantal this Valentine's weekend or go for the gusto! Offerings include celebrating breakfast in bed Saturday morning, getting "naughty" as soon as you arrive, on-site side-by-side one hour massage and dinner at the Old Mission Tavern. Tailor your weekend a la carte or get it all for the special one in your life! For more information call 231-223-4110 or visit www.chateauchantal.com

Couples Retreat at Twin Gables Inn - Twin Gables Inn, Saugatuck
Juggling the demands of your busy lifestyle sometimes leaves little time for you and your partner to connect and spend some time together in a calming, restful and relaxing atmosphere. Twin Gables wildly successful all inclusive spa weekends has now been expanded to include you and your partner. You will receive the services of a professional massage therapist as well as experienced beauty professionals. Make the time for each other and immerse yourself in the indulgences that a weekend of pampering will provide. Your weekend package for rooms 5-11 - $375.00 and luxury rooms 1-4 and 12-14 - $450.00
For more information call 269-857-4346 or visit www.twingablesinn.com

Fun Valentine's Day Dating Ideas

Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides Downtown Grand Rapids
Go over the Grand River and through Ah-Nab-Awen Park as you view some of the architectural and scenic highlights of downtown Grand Rapids in one of our beautiful 19th Century Vis-a-vis white carriages. Sit back and enjoy a slower pace while viewing the lovely landscaping and fountains surrounding the Gerald Ford Museum and the Grand Rapid Public Museum. Hear the clip-clop of horse hoofs as you cross the lighted bridges over the Grand River.Reservations are recommended; cost varies. For more information call (616) 893-4984 or visit Grand Carriages

Murder Mystery Trains

1. Boards 1 hour before departure at 451 N. Cochran Ave., Charlotte, MI
2. Boards 1 hour before departure at Blissfield depot, 301 E. Adrian St., Blissfield, MI

Join us for a 5-course meal and 5-star service on the longest continuously-operating dinner train in North America. Our famous Murder Mystery Dinner Train features a leisurely 3-hour trip through the Michigan farmland while a comedic murder mystery unfolds tableside. You'll die laughing!

Reservations are REQUIRED and can generally be made up to 24-hours before departure. The train begins boarding approximately one hour before departure. Tickets are $69.95 per person, which does not include bar service or gratuity. Sorry, group discounts are NOT available for this event, since it falls on Valentine's Day.

Call 1-888-GO-RAIL-1 (888-467-2451) or visit Murder Mystery Train for more information and reservations.

Blast from the Past Prom Night - Hess Lake Rentals, Newaygo
Hess Lake Rentals is proud to present "Blast from the Past Prom Night." Girls, this is your chance to get your significant other to finally take you to the prom that you originally may have missed, step up the romance in your relationship or simply have a night away from it all with your old high school friends. What ever your situation, you definitely don't want to miss this fun time. Dress in 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s prom attire with your spouse, significant other, girlfriends, etc. There will be voting for prom King and Queen and Court, photo booth, DJ, dinner, dancing and much more! Accommodations are only a few miles from the fun at any Hess Lake Rentals-Wisner vacation home rental. For more information call 616-638-9384 or visit www.hesslakerentals.com

Cupid's Couples Course at Swiss Valley Ski Area - Swiss Valley Ski Area, Jones
Valentine’s Weekend is coming up and Saturday Swiss Valley will celebrate in style. Bring your date Saturday for 2 for 1 lift tickets and ski rental from 6:00PM-10:00PM. We will also have live music in the Chalet by Three Rivers local, Mark Higgins, and a dinner special for two! A Bloody Mary Bar, with all your favorite fixins is planned from 6:00-9:00PM. AND….We will have a Cupid’s Couples Course Challenge , connected couple compete through a obstacle for chances to win $100.00 , $50.00 and $25.00 Yesterday’s gift certificates. For more information call 269-244-5635 or visit www.skiswissvalley.com

Great Backyard Bird Count - Otis Sanctuary, Hastings
The Otis Sanctuary will be hosting activites on Saturday, February 14th, in conjunction with the Great Backyard Bird Count. Activities include guided walks (8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.), self guided hikes (all day),
discounted birdfood sales (while supplies last! Starts at 9:00 a.m.), and we'll be counting birds at our feeders! There will be hot drinks and snacks on hand, come on out and say hi! For more information call 269-948-5777 or visit www.otissanctuary.org

9th Annual Pink Ice Game
The K-Wings' Pink Ice Game versus Port Huron, 7:30 p.m. Feb. 14 at Wings Stadium. A local couple will be married during the game and there will be a four-course meal from 5 to 7 p.m. prior to the game at The Icehouse Bar Grille. Tickets are $50 per couple and include the meal, a rose and an alcohol-free beverage. Reservations can be made by calling 345-1125, ext. 243, or 492-9319. www.wingsstadium.com

Valentine's Skate Date
Feb. 12, 6 to 8 p.m. at Millennium Park in Portage. It's $10 per person and includes skating, rental, a floral gift, a Spicy Pickle box lunch and sparkling grape juice. Pre-registration is required by Feb. 10. For more information, call 329-4522.

Non-Traditional Valentines Day Events

Valentine's Day Massacre 80th Anniversary - The West Michigan Connection
The Chicago St. Valentine’s Day Massacre 80th Anniversary - The West Michigan Connection
This year will be the 80th anniversary of one of the most notorious events in crime history – The St. Valentine’s Day Massacre. This incident has been recounted time and again in articles, books, television and the movies. On Saturday, February 14, the 80th anniversary, there will be special presentations, displays and more at The Old Jail Museum, 13 Walnut Street, Allegan, MI 49010 and The Griswold Auditorium, 401 Hubbard St Allegan, MI 49010. This special event is being brought to you by the Allegan County Historical Society. For more information call (269) 673-8292 or visit Allegan County Historical Society

ZOOROTICA: A Valentine’s Day to Remember!!
Tired of the same old dinner and a movie on Valentine’s Day? Do you want to surprise your special someone with a unique, exciting and educational experience that neither of you will ever forget? Then join Binder Park Zoo for a special “ZOOROTICA” tour and learn about the love lives of the scaly and slimy, the furry and fanged, and the feathered and flighted. Cost per couple is $50 and reservations must be made by February 10 by calling the zoo office Monday thru Friday- 8:30 am to 5 pm. Binder Park Zoo, Battle Creek, (269) 979-1351

STAR TREK Ultimate Wedding Package
POP THE QUESTION ON VALENTINE’S DAY IN ‘STAR TREK® THE EXHIBITION’ TO WIN A STAR TREK WEDDING AT THE DETROIT SCIENCE CENTER
Have you ever dreamed of getting married on the bridge of Star Trek’s U.S.S. Enterprise? This Valentine’s Day, visitors to STAR TREK THE EXHIBITION at the Detroit Science Center will have a chance to win this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Any couple who attends STAR TREK THE EXHIBITION and becomes engaged in the exhibit on Feb. 14, 2009 will be entered into an on-line contest to win a June wedding to be held in the exhibit. Couples will receive a complimentary photo in the exhibit, which will be posted on www.detroitsciencecenter.org from Feb. 16 – March 16, 2009, where site visitors will have an opportunity to vote on the couple they would like to see married in the exhibit. - Visit their website for details

Valentines Day Online Giveaways

The Valentine’s Day Anti-Recession E-Session Giveaway Contest

Epic Motion, a Michigan based wedding and event video production company, is giving an engagement session away for free.
"Email us if you’re interested AND if you meet the following criteria…

1. You are engaged to be married
2. You like to smile and laugh
3. You make a cute couple
4. You don’t mind spending an hour or two in the cold
5. You’re both pretty available the second week of February (hopefully the 11th or 13th) to film near Detroit
6. You’re tired of the recession already"

For more information, check out Wed Michigan's Valentines Day Giveaway

"In the spirit of the season... the romantic snowfalls, snuggling with your loved one, and of course, Valentine's Day, Wed Michigan is announcing it's first official giveaway! To enter, email me at wedmichigan@gmail.com with your engagement story by February 12th. Whether your story is romantic, funny, or didn't quite go as planned, Wed Michigan wants to hear them all. I will post my top three proposal picks and the winner will be announced on February 14th, Valentine's Day! "

Valentines Day Parties for Singles or Couples

Lover’s Lane
Come on down to New Holland Brewing Co. for their Lover's Lane party on February 14 from 8 pm to close! Make sure you are sending the right sign: wear red if you're taken; yellow if you're unsure and green if you're available. They will have rotating drink specials depending on what color you're wearing.
New Holland Brewing Co. Holland 616-355-6422 www.newhollandbrew.com

Ballroom Dance Valentine's Day Party
BALLROOM DANCERS - Singles and Couples Welcome to our Valentine's Day Party. Areas best place to Ballroom Dance. Voted Readers Choice Award 2008 for Favorite Place to Dance. Over 3,000 sq. ft hardwood dance floor. You are invited to our beautiful studio for an evening of dance. Celebrating our 19th Anniversary. Dress Code Required. $14.00 per person For more information call 269-383-4020 for reservations.

Bayside Travellers Dance Society Valentine's Dance,
4:30-6:30 p.m. fiddle jamboree; 7-7:45 p.m. Ceili dance workshop, 8-11 p.m. contra and square dancing, live music by Malarky, dances called and taught by Dan Gorno, $10 adults, $6 students with ID, $8 dance society members; Twin Lakes Park, Gilbert Lodge, 6800 N. Long Lake Road, TC; 313-2596. Bayside Travellers Dance Society

Valentines Day with the Kids

Valentine's Party
Jungle Joe's Family Fun Center, 7255 S. Sprinkle Road, Portage, 324-1992.

Heart-shaped pizzas
Papa Murphy's Take N Bake Pizza, Feb. 9-14. They are $6.99 for a large pepperoni pizza. www.papamurphys.com.

love from detroit by n.elle

The day for lovers, sweethearts and paramours is drawing close. Like it, love it, or hate it, Valentine's Day has become an annual tradition. Such a tradition, that according to the Greeting Card Association, over one billion valentines will be given out, and eighty five percent of those by women.

As you celebrate the holiday, consider making your day special with something from Michigan. There's plenty of delicious Valentine's Day recipes from Pure Michigan at Michigan.org. The Freep also offers up some culinary advice in their article "Whip up a romantic dinner with your sweetheart". The Detroit News has a V-Day food feature that puts forth the notion that 'chili peppers are one way to perk up your valentine's libido'. So if you like it spicy see "Put some sizzle behind the sentiment on Valentine's Day". Over at mlive.com you can check out "Valentine's Day is perfect for creating fun foods with kids".

Of course, if you're looking for something to compliment that tasty treat, consider the MDA's Wine Recommendations for that special day. According to the Wine Market Council and Merrill Research, a whopping 95 percent of wine drinkers agree that wine makes a perfect gift and 50% of both men and women said they would rather receive wine of Valentine’s Day, compared with 41% who preferred a box of chocolates. You can't go wrong with a Michigan wine!

Travel Michigan has put together a great selection of Romantic Escapes in Michigan. Their getaways and packages are perfect for couples who are looking to get away from it all (but not each other). While you're at it, be sure to check out the complete list of Winter Wine Festivals and check out the ones in early February that have a bit of a romantic angle.

If you're left scratching your head over what to buy him or her, be sure to check out WLNS.com for a Valentine's Day Gift Giving Guide for that perfect gift!

Don't forget the furry friends in your life, be a homeless pet's Valentine. WXYZ-TV 7 in Detroit is hosting their Annual Valentine's Day Telethon to support the Michigan Humane Society. Tune in or donate online!

Absolute Michigan's Mondo Valentine's Day Rundown
We have compiled an extensive list of Valentine's Day Events, Gift Ideas, Getaways & Dating Ideas, Giveaways and Parties for Singles, Couples & Kids. Check it out here!

If that's not enough and you really want to get your Valentine on, check out Absolute Michigan keyword Valentine for food & gift ideas.

For a little eye candy, you should check out the Valentine slideshow from the Absolute Michigan flickr pool!

We also have a large number of Michigan web sites to check out (though if we're missing one, be sure to add a link to it).

Flowers & Florists … say it with flowers

Chocolate … there's also candy companies

Candles … lighting the way for romance for thousands of years

Jewelry … silver & gold, platinum and bronze, pick your favorite.

Wow, you actually made it to the end of this post!
So relax, kick back, and watch one of Motown's finest, The Temptations, perform their hit song 'My Girl'. Definitely a Motown classic and a great song for Valentine's Day!

Holiday Train, photo by StormchaserMike Photography

The holiday season seems to too often become about things that I have no desire to celebrate - busy-ness, consumption and another excuse to fight about the fact that we are a country that is predicated on the acceptance of all religions and lack thereof.

Still, there's a part of me that sat at the top of the stairs, waiting for the report as to whether or not Santa came, one that snuggled in bed with my grandmother listening to the radio announcer tracking that red and white clad superhero of wishes and dreams, who sang carols with my family around the tree on Christmas Eve.

That part wants - with much thanks to Samara and Paws of Roar of the Tigers - to wish all of you a Happy Chanukah, Merry Christmas, Happy Kwanzaa a belatedly Happy Eid al-Adha, a Happy Winter Solstice/Yule and a Happy Winter Season for those who prefer not to celebrate anything.

Be sure to check Mike's Holiday Train out bigger and his whole Holidays slideshow.

Pewabic Pottery -Detroit by DetroitDerek

Pewabic Pottery is a living treasure and offers visitors an exciting glimpse of a little known part of American history. Founded in 1903 during the Arts & Crafts Movement, Pewabic is nationally renowned for its tile and pottery in unique glazes. Today it is a non profit ceramic art education center which welcomes 70,000 visitors annually.

Photographer DetroitDerek's Flickr page goes on to mention:

Now a Historic National Landmark, the studio and school at Pewabic Pottery first opened in 1903. Their pottery is on display all over the world, including the Louvre in Paris.They are also famous for their special glazed tiles, some are in use at Comerica Park in Detroit with the Detroit Tiger's English D on them, and at numerous Detroit Landmarks.

In addition to their Museum Store Pewabic Pottery's Online Store is offering FREE SHIPPING ON ALL ORDERS OF $100 OR MORE UNTIL 12/31/08!

Model D has a YouTube vid on the unique pottery that is a great watch.... So watch it!

Other resources to learn more about Pewabic Pottery:
Google timeline - Pewabic Pottery, 1900-2008

Wikipedia - Pewabic Pottery

Pewabic Vessels in the Margaret Watson Parker Collection

National Park Service's Pewabic Pottery page

girl in the D - Detroit's Pewabic Pottery

Check out the Absolute Michigan 2008 Holiday Gift Guide for more great gift ideas!

We'll feature up another holiday gift idea later. Until then, here's a look at one holiday shopping destination, the converted Russell Industrial Center bazaar in Detroit...

The Big Bright Light Show by suesue2

Think Globally, Shop Locally with our Michigan Holiday Gift Guide, designed to help you find the perfect Michigan gifts online or off. Feel free to add your Michigan based gift suggestions in the comments section below!

Art, Books & Music
Fire Center Studio - Ishpeming, MI
Savu has owned Fire Center Studio in Ishpeming, Michigan since 1987. While her painting and illustration is done out of her studio, her work sells in galleries and gift stores throughout northern Michigan and the midwest. Her primary gallery retailer is Michigamme Moonshine Gallery in Michigamme, Michigan. Savu's 'Colours of Home' annual collectible calendar series is available at bookstores and gift shops throughout the midwest as well as on website.

Mackerel Sky Gallery of Contemporary Craft - East Lansing
Mackerel Sky Gallery of Contemporary Craft, a gallery of fine craft located in East Lansing, Michigan. Owners Tom and Linda Dufelmeier created a format for the Gallery that includes an exhibit space featuring individual artists in shows that last for approximately two months. The works of art are presented in a comfortable, welcoming atmosphere allowing people from all backgrounds an opportunity to experience thought-provoking imagery by a single artist. The larger portion of the Gallery includes an eclectic selection of paper products, blown glass, jewelry, fiber, ceramics, garden accessories, fine woodworking, furniture, and lighting chosen for excellence in design and function.

Brian Vander Ark Music - Grand Rapids, MI
The lead singer of the Verve Pipe and author of the hit song "The Freshmen", Brian has just released his debut solo CD "Resurrection".

Fork in the Road by Eric Villegas
The new cookbook Fork in the Road with Eric Villegas (Huron River Press) is a companion to Chef Eric's award-winning national PBS cooking show of the same title. The 192-page, hard cover, book is filled with gorgeous food & other photography that sweeps you across the magical mitten, the great state of Michigan. From north to south and east to west Chef Villegas covers the great agricultural heritage of the state in his sumptuous recipes.

Pewabic Pottery - Detroit, MI
Pewabic Pottery is a living treasure and offers visitors an exciting glimpse of a little known part of American history. Founded in 1903 during the Arts & Crafts Movement, Pewabic is nationally renowned for its tile and pottery in unique glazes. Today it is a non profit ceramic art education center which welcomes 70,000 visitors annually.

Ducksicle - Detroit, MI
Detroit's only Chilled Poultry Rock quartet starring Tony, Helmut, Erica and the fantastischen Erik Jensen.

Elderly Instruments - Lansing, MI
The best music is the kind you make yourself and Michigan's largest instrument seller has a wide range of instruments and accessories for the accomplished or novice musician.

Heritage Guitar Inc. - Kalamazoo, MI
Heritage manufacturers Custom Carved Hollow Body Guitars, Semi Hollow Body Guitars, and Solid Body Guitars. This is to say nothing of the countless number of custom instruments made in each of the groups previously mentioned. Banjos, Mandolins, Flat Tops, and Basses, are no longer being produced because of the demand for the guitars mentioned in the above 3 categories.

From the Wine - Exploring Michigan Wineries
Get the only book that celebrates Michigan wine country, wines and winemakers with intriguing behind-the-scene stories, beautiful photographs and interesting side features (192 page, hard-cover book).

Harry Goldson - Suttons Bay, MI
Harry says that music is now more fun than ever, because now he is playing what he wants to play in a way he thinks it should sound, and what a sound it is! Harry's eighth album Flirtations is now available.

Earthwork Music
The Earthwork Music collective believes in the intrinsic and historical power of music to raise both community and self-awareness and serves to facilitate and encourage original music in the state of Michigan and beyond. Give Michigan music!

Glenn Wolff Studio - Traverse City, MI
Welcome to the Glenn Wolff Studio Store. The shelves are stocked with prints, original art, and music by Glenn and a few friends. Come on in and look around. We never close, and we are offering free shipping for the month of December.

Log Art Inc - Boyne City, MI
Welcome to Log Art Inc.'s Gallery which features samples of our line of fine-crafted rustic furniture and accessories. This sampling will give you a sense of the impeccable quality and craftsmanship that have come to be our trademark, "Lodge Look of Northern Michigan." Our design and building skills are of heirloom quality and the finest made in Michigan. We welcome custom orders and enjoy working with our clients to help build their dreams.

The Art of Karen M Smith - Lapeer, MI
Original paintings are available on this website, and listed for auction on Ebay. Many paintings available at Gallery 194 in downtown Lapeer.

Michigan History for Kids Magazine - Lansing, MI
Michigan History for Kids is a colorful, award-winning magazine produced by the staff of Michigan History magazine. Written at a fourth-grade reading level, the topics align with those covered on the fifth-grade MEAP test. Designed to make history fun for young readers, each magazine is filled with interesting stories, activities and travel suggestions. Michigan History for Kids can be purchased as an individual, gift or classroom subscription.

Hollander's - Ann Arbor, MI
Since 1991, when the store first opened, Hollander's has become one of the leading and largest sources in the country for unique decorative papers and bookbinding supplies. It is also well known for its outstanding offerings in book and paper arts workshops. In addition, Hollander's has grown as a retail store, specializing in stationery items ranging from journals and photo albums to cards and unique gifts.

Nature's Way Woodworking - Alberta, MI
We design beautiful furniture and gifts made with rare birdseye maple wood. Our fine hand crafted items are locally made in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, by our very own wood turning and wood designer expert: Dave Stimac. One look at our quality wooden gifts and accessories will bring you back again and again to see what's new in our latest line of weather instruments, barometers, clocks, dining room sets and kitchen items. Each item is a one-of-a kind work of art that you and your family will cherish for years to come.

Clothing & Jewelry
Yooper Steez - Marquette, MI
Steez: Style with ease! We believe everyone who lives in the U.P., or loves the U.P., should have a cool U.P. t-shirt. The way we see it, it doesn’t need words. Take the Nike logo for example, they don’t have “Just do it” under the swoosh. And the U.P. is the same. It has enough presence to stand on it’s own. In our opinion we expect people to recognize it, we shouldn’t have to tell them, they should know!

Aurora Borealis Designs - Leland, MI
Aurora Borealis Designs of Leland, Michigan hand crafts unique jewelry from beach glass, beach stones and silver.

Kathy Fagan Handbags - Okemos, MI
Welcome to Kathy Fagan Handbags—chic and charming bags for every occasion. Individually designed and handcrafted, each handbag exudes elegance and a touch of cheeky charm. Indulge in the chillier seasons' most crucial and decadent accessory, the fur handbag. Made from vintage and new fur pieces, each bag is one-of-a-kind—they are true collectors’ items.

baabaaZuzu - Lake Leelanau, MI
Hats, mittens, scarves, jackets, purses and bags, posy pins, christmas stockings and more are handcrafted in beautiful recycled wool... each a work of art.

BigLoveDetroit - Detroit, MI
BigLoveDetroit is all about givin' the Motor City some love. Our clothes are designed by local artists. We don't just slap any tired thing down and call it a day. We actually think. Even art snobs wear our stuff. By the way, a large portion of our profits are donated to Detroit-based charities. So what's wrong with a cool frock and helpin' out your neighbor? Nothing. Show your support by showin' some love.

Catherine Doll - Sawyer, MI
Located in the popular Harbor Country of southwest Michigan, on the shores of Lake Michigan, Catherine Doll is 80 miles from downtown Chicago. Sustainable fashion created from repurposed clothing - overdyed, pieced, crushed, tied, clamped, taken apart and put back together again. Each piece is one-of-a-kind.

Food, Dining & Drink
Zingerman's - Ann Arbor, MI
Send great food anywhere in America. Gift boxes of bread, cheese, pastry, olive oil, vinegar and more. You really can taste the difference.

Jampot - Eagle River, MI
Jampot is closed for the season. However, they currently have a full selection of jams,jellies, fruitcakes and truffles available for immediate shipping and the Christmas mail order season.

Sweetie-licious Pie Pantry - Dewitt, MI
Sweetie-licious Pie Pantry is a charming bakery cafe located in downtown DeWitt, Michigan. The vintage ambiance paired with delicious, old-fashioned food makes for a perfect dining or take-out experience. Our fare is created by infusing the best vintage recipes along with the latest taste sensations. All of our foods are homemade, made with only fresh and quality ingredients - no preservatives are ever added. We specialize in retro baked goods, but we have an amazing lunch and dinner menu as well. Simply put, everything we make is truly unique and yummy.

Vintage Michigan Club
Join the Vintage Michigan Club and discover Michigan's best-kept secret! Enjoy your favorite Michigan wines and reward yourself with special savings. With your lifetime membership you will receive these terrific benefits:

• Discounts at participating wineries, wine retailers, and restaurants across the state. View the list of participating businesses (PDF).
• Complimentary Michigan Wines Corkscrew or Etched Michigan Bottle Stopper.
• Michigan Wine Country magazine, an annual publication with maps to Michigan's wineries, interesting articles, and all the information you need to enjoy Michigan's wine country.
• Monthly email newsletter with the latest Michigan wine-related information.
• Discounts for selected Michigan wine festivals and events.

Cherry Republic - Glen Arbor & Traverse City, MI
Welcome to Cherry Republic, the land of Life, Liberty, Beaches & Pie! Over 141 gourmet food products made from Michigan cherries to sample, purchase and send as gifts. Cherry Bakery, Cherry Winery, Cherry Cafe and Retail Store. Free gift-boxing.

Leelanau Coffee Roasting Company - Glen Arbor, MI
Leelanau Coffee Roasting has wonderful gifts for all of the special people in your life... Coffee beans! French Presses! Logo Mugs! Grinders! Leelanau Coffee sells all the exciting coffee accessories to make your coffee drinking a true "up north" experience. 2008 marks our Fifteenth Year, and we are proud of our heritage, and excited about the future!

Rafal Spice Company - Detroit, MI
Visiting Rafal's is like taking a world tour. You smell Rafal's before you see it. The spices waft through the air and lure you into the exotic world of spice import. Brightly labeled bottles, boxes, and bags, each containing an elixir to perk up any concoction, line the shelves. Glass jars are filled with every spice and herb imaginable, from adobo and asafetida to xanthan and za'atar. To the left of the spice area, canisters of teas and kegs of coffee beans lend their fragrances.

Higher Grounds Trading Company - Traverse City, MI
Roasting 100% Fair Trade and Organic Handcrafted Coffees. Check out our great coffee, gifts and gear this holiday season!

Rudy Baggs - Lansing, MI
Rudy Baggs Coffee Roasting Company roasts only world class Arabica coffee and specializes in weekly home delivery.

Pasty Central - Calumet, MI
Order Delicious U.P. Pasties and see why Pasty Central has become a primary starting point for many visitors to Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Fresh from the U.P. to you! Great gifts!

Stone House Bread - Traverse City, MI
Our promise is the freshest bread in the North, made every morning with the finest organic flour—fragrant, crusty loaves with the sweet tang of sourdough. The baguettes and boules that emerge from our venerable Matador oven (built in Stuttgart when John Kennedy was president) will prompt memories of morning walks in Paris and Rome. We believe you'll say, with celebration: Now that's an honest loaf of bread!

Eden Foods - Clinton, MI
The finest locally grown and organic foods since 1968. Michigan organic beans, processed fruits and juices, pastas, whole grains, Edensoy, vegetable oils, vinegars, soy sauces, misos, snack mixes, teas, dried fruits, popcorn, etc. Buy on-line.

Grocers Daughter Chocolates - Empire, MI
Our artisan, hand-made chocolates and hand-dipped truffles are made with many locally grown/blended products such as herbs, spices, berries, spirits, coffees, teas and nuts. We use no artificial flavors or preservatives, and we buy locally when it is possible.

The Great American Pretzel Company - Howell, MI
At The Great American Pretzel Company® we make the best gourmet Chocolate Covered Pretzels in America. Our products are made using only the finest milk, dark and white chocolates, the freshest pretzels and highest quality ingredients. Our beautifully packaged, made-to-order pretzels make a perfectly decedent gift for someone special or an indulgent treat for oneself. 1-866-889-5778

Leelanau Peninsula Vinter's Association - Leelanau county
The mission of the Leelanau Peninsula Vintners Association (LPVA) is to help spread the word about all the good things happening here in our corner of paradise. Our cool-climate, Michigan wines have been winning more national and international awards and praise each and every year. Leelanau County wines and vineyard tours make the perfect gift.

Pioneer Wine Trail - Southeast MI
Southeastern Michigan's Pioneer wine making region is a great place to spend a few hours...or a few days! The beautiful rolling Irish Hills, many lakes and Hidden Lake Gardens are right along the trail. Relax, savor our wines, stop for some antiquing and perhaps stay in one of the many Bed and Breakfast inns in the area.

Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail - Southwest MI
Discover the world of wine in your own backyard by visiting our tasting rooms nestled among the rolling hills and inland lakes. We are a short ride from our harbor towns of New Buffalo, St. Joseph, South Haven, and Saugatuck. Enjoy award winning Michigan wines as spectacular as our sunsets on the beach.

Home & Garden
Ciao Bella - Petoskey, MI
Garden and home products and services personally chosen to appeal to one's pursuit of the well-lived life, no matter how great your dream or how small our product.

Spa & Pampering
The Great Lakes Natural Soap Company - Canton, MI
The Great Lakes Natural Soap Company is a Michigan-based producer of top quality natural soap. All of our soaps are handcrafted, in small batches, using premium ingredients and exceptional quality control. No two soaps will ever be exactly alike. Great for gifts!

Little Black Book of Beauty - Detroit, MI
Looking for a new Michigan salon or spa? Or a great skin care provider or personal trainer? Or any other hair, make up and beauty related therapy? Our guide to beauty services will help you find whatever products and treatments you're after.

Two Bees Candles
100% Beeswax, all natural candles. Free of fragrances, chemicals, paraffin. Great Lakes area beeswax, with the natural aroma of honey from the hive.

Sports & Recreation
Old AuSable Fly Shop & Old AuSable Outdoors - Grayling, MI
Old AuSable Fly shop has Scott, St.Croix, Keystone & TFO Rods Ross, SA, TFO and Bailey Reels. Fish Pond, Pacific Fly, Logo shirts & hats, Dan Bailey Waders, Fly tying materials. Any gizmo or accessory you need! Old AuSable Outdoors is a full service fly fishing pro shop, a complete paddlesports center and a sundries shop with unique items including art, books and gifts with a Northern Michigan flair. We are located on the banks of the beautiful AuSable River.

Lee's Adventure Sports - Portage, MI
Lee's Adventure Sports is a family owned Southwest Michigan outdoor sports gear business that was started in December of 1954 by Bill and Evelyn Lee. Lee's is presently located at 311 West Kilgore Road and being run by Skip and Chris Lee, the next generation. We offer outdoor sports gear product mix of camping, kayaking, hiking, backpacking, skis, snowboards, xc skis, snowshoes, canoes, kayaks, footwear, travel gear, luggage and the clothing to do it all in. Performance and quality is in all of our products.

Bay de Noc Lure Company - Gladstone, MI
Ice fishing and saltwater fishing may not have much in common, but the fishing lures found at the Swedish Pimple website can be used for both ice fishing and saltwater fishing. Ideal lures for saltwater fishing include the Swedish Pimple, Swedish Pimple Ice, Do-Jigger, Laker Taker and the Flutter Laker Taker. On your next excursion, include some of our fishing lures in your saltwater fishing tackle. You'll be surprised at how many limit catches they produce.

Indian Country Sports - L'Anse - MI
Indian Country Sports is a family owned and operated retail sporting goods business located on the shores of Lake Superior in beautiful downtown L’Anse serving fishing, hunting, and outdoor enthusiasts since 1968.

Toys & Hobbies
Treehouse Toys & Books - Lansing, MI
Based on the belief that the right playthings give children a gateway to physical, emotional and cognitive development Treehouse Toys & Books provides toys and books in an atmosphere that is both active and interactive. Its unique aesthetic approach is vibrant yet warm, exciting yet comforting and exploratory yet safe. From rich colors and woods to low sightlines and custom fixtures the Brilliant Sky sensory experience is unlike any other.

Down to Earth Toys - Ortonville, MI
Why Down To Earth Toys? Over 90% of our toys are Made in USA! Offering top quality Wooden and Natural toys made in the USA.We feel that protecting your child, while also supporting America’s economy, are of utmost importance. Whether you are looking for baby toys made in USA, toddler toys, or outdoor toys… know that you have found a store who is dedicated to offering you toys that you will feel great about giving!

Enerdyne Science & Nature Store - Suttons Bay, MI
Gifts for all ages! Enerdyne's website exists to introduce you to our science and nature store and its products. We also provide interesting information about various science/nature topics. We'd love to have you stop in and visit Enerdyne for your gifting needs!

Drueke - Ludington, MI
The Drueke Company is America's oldest manufacturer of traditional board games. The chess boards and chess accessories that we offer are second-to-none. Our reputation for quality chess sets inspired us to produce a variety of classic games for our customers to enjoy. Our product line includes action games, backgammon, cribbage, dominos, checkers, game boxes, chess tables and wooden accessories.

Deep Woods Press, photo by Todd Zawistowski

Michigan Radio's Jennifer Guerra recently took a trip to northern lower Michigan to explore the ties between art & community. One of her stops was Chad Pastotnik's Deep Wood Press studio in Mancelona to learn about the centuries old art of letterpress:

The first you thing you notice about Chad Pastotnik's studio is that – minus Chad – everything in it is old. It's almost as though you've stepped back in time to the days of Gutenberg and his printing press.

"Yeah, this is not Kinko's. It's not even your ink jet," jokes Pastotnik.

Hardly. This is hand set, letterpress printing. It's a fine art that's been around for 500 years and has recently undergone a kind of revival in the states. Book Arts graduate programs are popping up around the country and community art centers have started to offer letter press workshops. But none of that was around when Pastotnik was an undergrad getting his fine art degree in printmaking:

"At that point," says Pastotnik, " I didn't even know about the fine book tradition. I'd seen fine books, but I wasn't aware in the 80's what this whole thing was about."

..."Well," he says, "I wanted words with my images and that was the way to go. You know, it's magic. It's alchemy in the works. It's turning lead into gold."

Listen to the interview and head over to the Deep Wood Press web site for more about this cool process. Also be sure to check out her other features on Bay Bucks, the Art Farm and Earthworks Music.

The photo is Yes by Amy Palomar, seen (with so many others) in Exposure.Detroit - dive into the Exposure.Detroit Flickriver.

Amy says that if she could add music, it would be this.

A Trap is Set by Rudy Malmquist

From RGTV: Park(ing) Day on Rapid Growth:

Leaders of the Green Grand Rapids initiative are spearheading West Michigan’s first celebration of National Park(ing) Day as part of an effort to challenge citizens to re-think the way streets are used and reinforce the need for urban open space.

Tomorrow, Friday, Sept. 19, citizens, organizations and businesses will transform metered parking spaces in downtown Grand Rapids into parks, playgrounds, social spaces and other creative places. The cost is $10 per space and spots are still available. Participants must register with the City of Grand Rapids Planning Department at 616-456-3031.

“It’s a chance for citizens to take our everyday parking spaces and turn them into green space,” says City of Grand Rapids Planning Director Suzanne Schultz. “There is a civil disobedience aspect to it, this is a chance to do something creative and reinvent the public space.”

Rolling Photos (Adam Vander Ark) writes that he is wheelchair bound with a passion for photography and sports.

You can see another view of this cool sculpture from Meijer Gardens in The Letter People. Some of his sets include Candids, Michigan's Lakeshore, Greater West Michigan Area and Mackinac Island (slideshow).